With its dramatic medieval fortifications and huddles of antique houses teetering over the lovely River Yantra, Veliko Tarnovo holds a uniquely important place in the minds of Bulgarians.
When the National Assembly met here to draft Bulgaria’s first constitution in 1879, it did so in the former capital of the Second Kingdom (1185–1396), whose civilisation was snuffed out by the Turks. It was here, too, that the Communists chose to proclaim the People’s Republic in 1944. Modern Veliko Tarnovo centres on ploshtad Mayka Balgariya: from here bul. Nezavisimost (which becomes ul. Stefan Stambolov after a few hundred metres) heads northeast into a network of narrow streets that curve above the River Yantra and mark out the old town and its photogenic houses. From ul. Stambolov, the narrow cobbled ul. Rakovski slopes up into the Varosh Quarter, a pretty ensemble of nineteenth-century buildings once home to bustling artisans’ workshops and now occupied by clothing and souvenir shops.
Veliko Tarnovo – Luxury Collection
Bey House Royal Hotel$$$$
Make yourself at home in one of the 4 individually decorated guestrooms, featuring minibars and espresso makers. Your memory foam bed comes with Egyptian cotton sheets. 32-inch Smart televisions with cable programming provide entertainment, while complimentary wireless internet access keeps you connected. Bathrooms have designer toiletries and bidets. The Grand Chamber of Tsarina Margarita and Grand Chamber Giovanna, have separate living and sleeping areas. All rooms feature luxurious furnish...
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